Former Salford captain and coach Malcolm Alker has revealed he took the banned drug Human Growth Hormone during his career.
Former Salford skipper reveals all in new autobiography
Former Salford captain and coach Malcolm Alker has revealed he took the banned drug Human Growth Hormone during his career.
And the revelations could land the 33-year-old in hot water after his comments were passed to the UK Anti-Doping agency.
Alker, who was forced to retire through injury in 2010, made the revelations in an autobiography to be published next week.
The hooker, whose career ended in controversy after more than 350 appearances for the Reds, said he wanted to 'come clean' about his past.
Conscience
"People may be thinking I've decided to bring out a book because I'm still bitter about how things worked out for me at Salford towards the end of my career. That's not true," Alker told the
Manchester Evening News.
"The book is a real warts-and-all account of my life and my career. I said I wanted to go to the grave with a clear conscience and it tells of the mistakes that I've made in life.
"I once went a full season needing a shoulder reconstruction but battled on. I also underwent a course of human growth hormone.
"I became depressed but, by coming clean, I hope what I've revealed will see things improve within the game for player welfare.
"I'm also hoping that young players will take note, realise the pressures of professional rugby and the pitfalls and don't make the mistakes that I did."
Surprising
Salford director of football Steve Simms said the club were unaware of any drug use by Alker during his time as a player.
"It's surprising and disappointing to hear those comments," Simms said. "Players are tested regularly and at random and they get caught sooner or later. It's a thorough and rigorous process."
A spokesman for the Rugby Football League said the allegations made by Alker have been passed on to the UK Anti-Doping agency for investigation.
"Mr Alker's alleged admissions are of interest to UK Anti-Doping," a statement from the agency said. "We will be seeking to clarify the relevant facts in this matter.
"The World Anti-Doping Code has an eight-year statute of limitations which applies worldwide.
"UK Anti-Doping works closely with the sport, at a national and club level, on a comprehensive doping prevention programme that includes education and testing."
